IRCTC New Policy 2025: Book Online with Aadhaar & Flexibility

In a significant step toward modernizing train travel and enhancing passenger convenience in India, the Indian Railways has introduced the IRCTC New Ticket Policy 2025. This policy brings major changes in the way train tickets are booked online. The primary highlights include mandatory Aadhaar verification for online bookings and a flexible rescheduling option that does not charge cancellation fees. These changes aim to streamline the ticketing process, reduce fraudulent bookings, and offer passengers more control over their travel plans.

Whether you are a regular commuter, a holiday traveler, or booking a Tatkal ticket at the last moment, understanding these changes is important to ensure a smooth booking experience.

Aadhaar Verification for Online Ticket Bookings

One of the biggest changes in the 2025 policy is the integration of Aadhaar verification during ticket booking. Aadhaar, being a unique identification system in India, allows IRCTC to confirm the identity of passengers instantly.

Mandatory Aadhaar Authentication

From October 1, 2025, passengers booking general reserved tickets online via the IRCTC website or mobile app must complete Aadhaar verification during the first 15 minutes of the ticket reservation window. This early verification ensures that genuine passengers are able to book tickets without interference from unauthorized agents or ticket touts.

The main goal of this step is to create a fairer and more transparent system. Many times, automated bots and unauthorized agents book tickets in bulk during the first minutes of ticket opening, leaving genuine passengers without options. Aadhaar authentication helps prevent such practices and provides equal opportunity to everyone.

Key Points:

• Aadhaar verification is mandatory only during the first 15 minutes of the booking window.
• Only online bookings are affected. Tickets booked at PRS counters or offline methods remain unaffected.
• This policy ensures security and authenticity in the ticketing system.

Tatkal Booking Rules

Tatkal bookings, which are usually last-minute bookings, also come under this policy. For Tatkal tickets:

• Aadhaar verification has been mandatory since July 1, 2025.
• OTP-based verification has been compulsory since July 15, 2025, for Tatkal tickets booked online, at PRS counters, or through authorized agents.

This system reduces misuse and hoarding of Tatkal tickets, a common issue where agents use bots to block tickets immediately when booking opens. With OTP and Aadhaar verification, the chances of unfair booking are significantly reduced.

Important Note:

Passengers must ensure their mobile numbers are linked to Aadhaar, as the OTP will be sent to the registered number. This ensures that the ticket is booked by the actual passenger, not an agent.

No Change for PRS Counter Bookings

Passengers who prefer booking tickets at Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters do not need Aadhaar for regular or Tatkal bookings. The changes apply only to online bookings.

This provides flexibility for passengers who may face technical difficulties or do not have access to online services. PRS counters continue to operate as usual, catering to older passengers or those who prefer offline booking.

Rescheduling Train Tickets Without Cancellation Fees

Another major improvement under the new policy is the rescheduling feature without cancellation charges. This is a significant step toward passenger convenience.

How it Works

Previously, if you wanted to change your travel date, you had to cancel your ticket and pay a cancellation fee before rebooking. Now, under the 2025 policy:

• Passengers can reschedule their tickets to a later date without paying any cancellation charges.
• The rescheduling process is simple and can be done online through the IRCTC website or app.
• Tickets remain valid, and you do not need to go through the cancellation and refund process.

Benefits of Rescheduling:

• Flexibility: Change your travel dates without losing money.
• Convenience: Avoid the hassle of canceling tickets and booking again.
• Cost-effective: No cancellation fees mean you can adjust plans without financial loss.

This feature is especially useful for passengers whose plans are uncertain or might change due to emergencies, business trips, or personal reasons.

How to Link Aadhaar with Your IRCTC Account

To book tickets smoothly, passengers must link their Aadhaar number with their IRCTC account. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the IRCTC Website: Go to www.irctc.co.in.
2. Login to Your Account: Use your IRCTC User ID and password to sign in.
3. Navigate to ‘Profile’: Click on the ‘Profile’ section in the menu.
4. Select ‘Aadhaar Linking’: Find the option ‘Aadhaar Linking’ under the Profile section.
5. Enter Aadhaar Details: Input your 12-digit Aadhaar number and click Send OTP.
6. Verify OTP: Enter the OTP received on your mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
7. Complete Linking: Once verified, your Aadhaar will be successfully linked to your IRCTC account.

Tips for Linking Aadhaar:

• Make sure your mobile number is registered with your Aadhaar.
• Double-check your Aadhaar details before entering them on the website.
• Linking your Aadhaar ensures smooth and quick verification when booking tickets online.

Additional Tips for Passengers

• Early Booking: Always try to book tickets as soon as the reservation window opens to get confirmed seats.
• Keep Aadhaar Handy: Ensure your Aadhaar number and registered mobile are ready before booking.
• Check for Updates: IRCTC may introduce new features or changes, so regularly check the official website for updates.
• Use App for Convenience: Booking via the IRCTC mobile app often provides a faster experience and instant notifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the new IRCTC ticket policy for 2025?

A1: It mandates Aadhaar verification for online ticket bookings during the first 15 minutes of the reservation window, starting October 1, 2025.

Does the Aadhaar verification apply to Tatkal bookings?

A2: Yes, Aadhaar verification has been mandatory for Tatkal bookings since July 1, 2025, and OTP verification since July 15, 2025.

Can I book tickets at PRS counters without Aadhaar?

A3: Yes, offline PRS counter bookings do not require Aadhaar verification.

How can I reschedule my train ticket without paying a cancellation fee?

A4: Passengers can now reschedule tickets to a new travel date online through the IRCTC website or app without paying any cancellation charges.

How do I link my Aadhaar with my IRCTC account?

A5: Follow the steps above to link Aadhaar with your account. Ensure your mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar for OTP verification.

Is Aadhaar verification compulsory for all passengers?

A6: Aadhaar verification is compulsory for online bookings during the first 15 minutes of the reservation window. It is not required for PRS counter bookings.

What happens if I enter incorrect Aadhaar details?

A7: Incorrect Aadhaar details may prevent booking. Always verify the number and linked mobile before proceeding.

Final Thoughts

The IRCTC New Ticket Policy 2025 is a transformative step toward digitalization and passenger convenience in Indian Railways. By making Aadhaar verification mandatory, the system ensures secure and fair access to train tickets, reducing fraudulent practices and agent misuse.

The introduction of rescheduling without cancellation fees gives passengers unprecedented flexibility, allowing them to adjust travel plans without worrying about extra costs. These features make train travel more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly.

Passengers are encouraged to link their Aadhaar with IRCTC accounts, ensure mobile numbers are updated, and familiarize themselves with the new rescheduling process to take full advantage of these benefits.

For the latest updates and detailed information, always visit the official IRCTC website.

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